Race, DA1 Armchair, 1946

Ernest Race used a welded steel-rod frame to create an elegant and organic form.

The innovative use of a steel-rod structure provided for sinuous and visually lightweight design, based on the shape of a classic wing chair. The design of the DA series was in stark contrast with the bulky and heavy forms available in late 1940s and early 1950’s.

Race is best known for his iconic design for the Festival of Britain in 1951, the Antelope chair. The exposed frame is in essence a stripped down version of his DA series of upholstered chairs and sofas from the late 1940’s.

Ernest Race practiced both furniture and textile design. His understanding of materials and processes allowed for a diverse output of furniture in aluminium, steel, plywood and upholstery. Race was widely awarded for his designs during his short career and his historically important work appears in museum collections worldwide.

Dimensions
66w x 92d x 43/100cmh